Treating & Removing A Bulbous Nose

What Is A Bulbous Nose (Rhinophyma)?

A bulbous nose is a term used to describe a nose that has a pronounced bulb, or ball, at the end of it. The tip of the nose is enlarged and rounded in appearance. Individuals who have a bulbous nose may be self-conscious about the effect it has on the appearance of their nose, and on the overall symmetry of their face.

Rhinophyma can occur as part of phymatous rosacea. In this case, the formation of a bulbous nose is due to severe, untreated rosacea.

What Causes Rhinophyma?

A bulbous nose can be caused by a number of factors, including ill-defined, large lower lateral cartilage, a rounded “dome” shape to the nose itself, and heavy soft-tissue coverage or weak cartilage. Individuals with rosacea are also likely to develop a bulbous nose, as heavy tissue growth on the nose is a symptom of that condition. Men are more likely to develop rhinophyma than women, as are those with fair skin and a family history of rosacea.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Rhinophyma?

Usually, individuals with rhinophyma do not experience any adverse health effects as a result of the condition. However, a 2015 study in the peer-reviewed journal ePlasty showed that 3-10% of individuals with rhinophyma have occult basal cell carcinoma, a type of cancer.

Common Rhinophyma Symptoms

Rhinophyma symptoms include a bulbous growth on the tip of the nose. Symptoms can also include red or purplish discolouration of the skin on the nose, enlarged pores, scarring or pitting, and thickened skin. Individuals with rosacea may also see visible blood vessels and bumps that look like pimples. The skin may become oily or dry and appear waxy and rough if left untreated.

How To Get Rid Of A Bulbous Nose Without Surgery

Solution 1: Medication Or Creams

Some doctors may treat a bulbous nose with the same antibiotics used to treat rosacea and recommend topical medications or creams, such as azelaic acid, to help minimize redness.

Solution 2: Lifestyle Changes

Some lifestyle changes may help to alleviate the redness and inflammation some individuals with a bulbous nose experience. These include eating fewer spicy foods, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and staying out of the sun. Smoking cessation may also be recommended.

How Much Does It Cost To Remove A Bulbous Nose?

The cost of bulbous nose rhinoplasty starts at $10,999.

Bulbous Nose Solutions at TPS

At TPS, rhinoplasty (or nose job) is a surgical solution for addressing a bulbous nose. When a patient opts for rhinoplasty, their surgeon will reshape the nasal tip to reduce its rounded appearance and enhance facial symmetry. Each patient will have a personalized consultation with Dr. Bell to discuss their goals and determine the ideal outcome for their unique facial structure.